LaSalle County Visitors Guide 2023

LASALLE County VisitorsGuide PARK

HOME OF STARVED ROCK

Welcome! TO LASALLE COUNTY

The perfect getaway is closer than you thought!

Nestled along historic waterways and dotted with picturesque State Parks, you’ll find scenic LaSalle County. For the better part of a century, this stretch of central Illinois has been a destination for travelers wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, an oasis of unexpected natural wonders nestled in the Prairie State.

In the age of daytrips, weekday excursions and short overnight getaways, there’s truly never been a better time to visit LaSalle County. Along with legendary natural attractions like Starved Rock State Park, you’ll find lively small towns lined with exciting eateries and boutique shopping opportunities. Whether you’re looking to tour museums and mansions, or sample locally made wine and craft beer, there’s an adventure awaiting you in LaSalle County.

You’ll find this beautiful stretch of North Central Illinois along I-80 and I-39, conveniently located less than an hour and a half from Chicago, Rockford, the Quad Cities, Bloomington and Peoria.

To make your upcoming trip to LaSalle County even easier, we’ve filled this guide with memorable road trip ideas, one day excursions and tips for planning your LaSalle County Vacation. Whether you’re looking to visit our iconic State Parks, explore beautifully preserved historic sites or plan the perfect familyfriendly vacation, this guide has you covered!

For even more trip ideas, head to our website at www.enjoylasallecounty.com

Enjoy your stay,

Jill Bernal Committee Chairman LaSalle County Tourism

2023 OFFICIAL LASALLE COUNTY VISITOR GUIDE

For tourism information or additional copies, visit enjoylasallecounty.com.

PUBLISHED BY:

110 W Jefferson St. • Ottawa, IL 61350 www.mywebtimes.com

REGIONAL ADVERTISING DIRECTOR: Jeanette Smith COPYWRITING: Ryan Searl DESIGN: Sheryl Liss

SPECIAL THANKS FOR OUR GUEST PHOTOGRAPHERS: Tim Quist, Kathy Casstevens, The Ottawa Visitors Center, Steve Stout, Tom Sistak, and Scott Anderson

COVER PHOTO BY: Kathy Casstevens

ADDITIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY: Hegeler Carus Mansion, Reddick Mansion, LaSalle County Historical Society and Ottawa Heritage and Scouting Museum

Special thanks to the LaSalle County Board and Tourism Coalition for their continued commitment to fostering LaSalle County’s tourism industry, as well as their guidance and vision throughout the process of producing this guide.

Every attempt has been made to verify the information contained in this publication. LaSalle County Tourism and Shaw Media assume no liability for incorrect, omitted or outdated information contained herein. To ensure a safe and happy trip, call ahead to verify information.

2023-04/50K

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STARVEDRock

Starved Rock State Park is a world apart from anything else in Illinois. Since the late 1800’s visitors have been trekking to this beautiful, and unexpected, stretch of nature to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. More than a century later, and this still holds true. From the moment you first meander your car

through the towering trees at the edge of the park, you will feel as if you are a world away from the Illinois you know. At Starved Rock, more than 13 miles of trails meander along, and above, the Illinois River. While you explore these environs, you’ll find countless breathtaking views, places to fish, boat, and simply relax in nature’s splendor. From the towering sandstone canyons to amazing seasonal waterfalls, there’s an awe inspiring view around every corner. Whatever the season you choose to explore, a trip to Starved Rock will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Consistently voted the #1 Attraction in The State of Illinois, Starved Rock features 18 unique canyons, several of

which produce stunning seasonal waterfalls. Guests can explore a vast network of trails, where they can soak in awe inspiring vistas and encounter remarkable plants and animals. The fun at Starved Rock doesn’t stop there, as the park’s historic lodge and informative visitors center offer special programs like guided hikes, trolley tours, presentations from wildlife experts, live concerts, dining and much more!

Starved Rock Lodge

STARVED ROCK

Check list

STOP 1:

State Park adventure! Here, you’ll

You can borrow binoculars, dog bowls, and dog leashes for FREE at the front desk of the Visitors Center.

Tip

Concessions and Gifts for a great

park’s namesake, Starved Rock. The summit is home to one of

Starved RockVisitor Center

LaSalle Canyon

the best views in the entire behind it. Even when falls aren’t in season, the canyon’s towering walls of intricate sandstone make for quite the sight.

STOP 4: French Canyon

One of the easiest hikes in the parks, just so happens to lead to one of the most beautiful canyons! Located just 0.4-miles southeast of the Visitors Center, French Canyon offers a towering 45-foot tall waterfall during the rainy season, and beautifully eroded Saint Peters sandstone all year round. After a rainfall, admire the colorful streaks left on the canyon walls by the mineral-rich water.

WATERFALLS AND CANYONS

Most of Starved Rock’s beautiful sandstone canyons produce waterfalls after periods of heavy rainfall, but St. Louis, LaSalle, French, Wildcat, Ottawa, and Kaskaskia Canyons are considered to be among the best. St. Louis Canyon boasts the only spring-fed waterfall in the park, resulting in much longer waterfalls, while LaSalle Canyon (despite being much shorter than the other waterfalls) is the only one in the park you can walk behind while the waterfall is in action! The French Canyon waterfall is conveniently located just a short 0.4 mile hike from the Visitor Center, while Wildcat is hands down the largest in the park, a gargantuan waterfall exceeding 70 feet in height.

ILLINOIS RIVER

EAGLE WATCHING

Every winter, a small stretch of the Illinois River, between Starved Rock State Park and the Illinois Waterways Visitors Center, becomes a temporary condominium for a convocation of eagles! These majestic creatures, with wingspans upward of eight feet in length, pay Starved Rock a visit every year when more northern state’s rivers and lakes begin to freeze.

The Illinois Audubon Society’s Plum Island Sanctuary, located at the base of the Starved Rock Lock, is commonly used by these eagles as a wintering site. The island’s seclusion, sturdy trees and proximity to a non-iced-over section of the river, makes Plum Island particularly desirable real estate for these feathered fliers.

Bald Eagle

During their wintering season, which lasts anywhere between December and March, you’ll often spot these eagles circling above broken ice, trying to find their next meal, or roosting among the island’s tallest trees. To see these eagles for yourself, head to the Lover’s Leap Overlook, the peak of Starved Rock or the aptly named Eagle Cliff Overlook. Be sure to bring a pair of binoculars or a camera with a large telephoto lens. If you left your binoculars at home, don’t fret, Starved Rock Visitors Center also loans out complimentary pairs at the front desk.

STOP 5: LaSalle Canyon

Located about a mile from the Parkman’s Plain parking lot, LaSalle Canyon boasts a wide picturesque canyon and jutting sandstone shelf, suspended 20 feet off the ground. Best of all, your hike to the canyon will wind you along the Illinois River, providing you with a great view of the river and a chance to see some rare birds and foliage.

STOP 6:

Water Cruise or Trolley Tour

If you’re looking to get out of the canyons and take a break from hiking, or if you have a party member looking for a less active excursion, you can reserve a spot aboard Starved Rock’s Eagle One Water Cruise (running Jun. – Oct.) or take a Trolley Tour (running year-round). These narrated tours merge history and sightseeing for a truly one-of-kind view of Starved Rock.

STOP 7: Starved Rock Lodge and Conference Center

After a full day of hiking and sightseeing, cap your trip off with a stay at Starved Rock Lodge and Conference Center. This historic hotel nestled in nature, features a Cliffside panorama of the Illinois River, an indoor pool complex, on-site restaurants and a beautiful rustic lounge. You can choose from historic lodge accommodations, spacious hotel rooms or charming log cabins.

OVERLOOKS

Starved Rock’s Canyons and Overlooks provide wonderful views of towering sandstone cliffs, lush vegetation and the mighty Illinois River. Photo-worthy sites like Council Bluffs Overhang, a massive sandstone alcove once used by Indigenous tribes for ceremonies, and the titular Starved Rock, once home to the French explorer’s Fort Saint Louis des Illinois, now offer inspiring panoramic views of the river valley below.

ICE FALLS

There are more than a dozen waterfalls at Starved Rock State Park, many of which transform into beautiful, natural ice sculptures as winter tightens its grip on LaSalle County. According to the Starved Rock staff, some of the more notable (and stunning) ice waterfalls can be found in St. Louis, French, Wildcat, Ottawa and Kaskaskia canyons.

DOGS

Many blogs cite Starved Rock as one of the top destinations for hiking with your dog in the Midwest. The River Trail, that’s conveniently located off the recently restored Parkman’s Plain lot, is one of the more popular canine hikes. The dogfriendly outdoor Veranda at the Lodge even offers a special “doggy menu”. Dogs must be leashed inside the park.

MATTHIESSEN

State Park

the 19th century by La Salle zinc tycoon Frederick William

known as Deer Park, earning still remains one of your best

the grand Cascade Falls and the jaw dropping Giants

Bathtub. The trails above the bluffs are graded, relaxed enough for any novice hiker

Waterfalls

are active dependent on how much rain the area has seen. This makes spring an ideal

Scenic Hikes

time to explore the park!

Beyond a few sets of stairs to enter the dells and a handful of trails surrounding the brim of the canyon, much of your park exploring will be done by hopping across stepping stones, splashing through shallow creeks, and shuffling along narrow sandstone-lined pathways. With its narrow sandstone canyons and dense tree canopy, Matthiessen feels in many ways like the perfect counterpoint to Starved Rock’s winding trails and steep bluff vistas.

BUFFALO ROCK State Park

tribe, used as a camp for a religious sect, and even a tuberculosis sanatorium during the 1910’s. These days, it’s a hidden gem state park that brings together the disparate worlds of fine art and conservation.

American Bison

Located on the North banks of the Illinois River, Buffalo Rock State Park combines rustic prairie hiking with some of the best cliffside views in LaSalle County. Throughout this park’s storied past, it has been the home of an Indigenous American

The State Park is located approximately 3 miles west of Ottawa, Illinois, and has long been a favorite picnic area, as well as an ideal terrain for the beginner hikers.

Buffalo Rock features two trails that offer wildly different park experiences: The River Bluff Trail snakes you along the Illinois River (featuring plenty of great bird watching opportunities), while the Woodland Trail gives you an up-close look at trees,

wildlife, and the “Effigy Tumuli’’ mounds (made by visionary “earthworks’’ artist Michael Heizer) that resemble five enormous animals, a snake, turtle, catfish, frog and water strider. These earthworks, which can really only be seen from aerial photography today, were inspired by Indigenous American burial grounds, several of which can be found in the Illinois River

Buffalo Rock is also home to three live American Bison. This trio can be seen in their grazing pen, located near the Western parking lot.

An early (8 a.m.) arrival rewards guests with an opportunity to see the Buffalo get fed and, occasionally, morning fog on the Illinois River.

observation decks, you’ll be treated to a unique southward facing view

vista you can’t see at any of the other parks in the

Prairie Hiking

ILLINI State Park

Nestled along the Illinois River in Marseilles, Illini State Park is a serene hidden gem offering guests the perfect place to hold a picnic or family gathering. This 510-acre park boasts not only incredible views of the river, but also 100+ picturesque campsites, a boat ramp for easy river access and ample places for anglers to fish for crappie, bass, bluegill

Be sure to pay Illini a visit in Winter, when the park’s ice skating pool has frozen over, and the large sledding hill is covered in snow. During this season, you can also crosscountry ski on the park’s flat graded trails, then warm-up in their cozy shelter. During the Fall, the park’s a birder’s paradise, attracting scores

like Vireos, Warblers and Thrushes.

You’ll also find The Illinois Fallen Soldiers Tree Memorial, a unique living monument celebrating the lives of the soldiers lost in Iraq and Afghanistan. This site feature over 250 Oak Trees spread across a 2.5 acre plot of land, each celebrating soldier.

Come

Come enjoy all our delicious dining options from North to South including Al Fresco dining and drinking on Mill Street. From gourmet treats, wines and unique spices to antiques and specialty gifts. We have it all. Come for a day or the weekend.

MORE TO Explore

Beyond the borders of Starved Rock State Park, there’s even more exciting nature to explore in LaSalle County! Here are 14 other outdoor destinations you should be sure to visit on your next trip.

ALLEN PARK

400 COURTNEY STREET

OTTAWA

A sprawling riverfront park, located on Ottawa’s Rt. 71 that offers boat launches, docks, a riverwalk, tennis courts, playgrounds, picnic tables, toboggan run and an amphitheater.

BAKER LAKE

2700 AIRPORT ROAD • PERU

Baker Lake Park offers fishing, picnicking, playground, shelters, restrooms, soccer field and a 1-mile paved walking path.

CATLIN PARK

2560 EAST 1251ST ROAD

OTTAWA

This 333-acre park offers fourteen distinct trails that run past streams, ponds and Catlin’s lush river valley vegetation. If you’re a fan of horseback riding, Catlin has some of the best trails in the area for riding.

DAYTON BLUFFS

2997 ROUTE 71 • OTTAWA

Owned by The Conservation Foundation and managed

LaSalle County’s newest parks. Winding along the bluffs of the park features bubbling creeks,

HOPALONG

CASSIDY CANOE LAUNCH

WEST MAIN STREET RTE. 18 STREATOR

This 0.5 mile trail parallels the flowing waters of the Vermilion River. Visitors can follow the trail through a forest of mulberry, hackberry, oak and maples. Blue jays, chickadees, and woodpeckers are frequent sights for birders, while butterflies and dragonflies are commonly found along the trail’s sunnier stretches.

LAKE KAKUSHA

ROUTE 251 • MENDOTA

This man-made lake, located in northern LaSalle County, is ideal for fishing and light trail walking. You’ll find ample shelters and picnic areas.

Nature Preserves

MCPHEDRAN PARK

OAKWOOD AVE. • OGLESBY

This pet-friendly park features a fishing pond and pier. You’ll also find a 1/3 mile long walking track, complete with 6 work out stations. For the kids, there’s a playground with baby swings, regular swings and a pirate-themed jungle gym.

MITCHELL’S GROVE NATURE PRESERVE EAST 5TH ROAD • LASALLE

This small park is something of a geological oddity, with its unique rock formations showing evidence of glacial gouging and boulder deposits from as far north as Canada. You’ll also find a winding creek, tall bluff outcroppings and some rare vegetation. For nonrockhounds, it’s also a popular hunting destination during deer season.

RIVER WALK AND FOX

RIVER PARK

1025 ONTARIO STREET

OTTAWA

See the beauty of the Fox River from downtown Ottawa. You’ll find a paved walking path that runs from Fox River Park all the way to the downtown, where the Fox meets the Illinois River. At Fox River Park you’ll also find a splash pad, 9-hole disk golf course, playground,

HIKING Tips

DON’T LITTER

Do your part to keep the parks looking nice! There are ample waste receptacles scattered throughout the parks, be sure to keep any waste you generate on the trail inside your bag until you find one.

STAY ON THE TRAILS

Venturing off trails at any of Illinois’ State Parks is strictly forbidden, and for good reason. There are countless sharp drop offs, ravines, and dangerous plants off the trails. Admire the beautiful sights from only the clearly marked trails.

DRESS RIGHT

Wear well fitted shoes, preferably hiking boots with good traction. Dress appropriately for the weather, always anticipate it being cooler inside the canyons at Starved Rock and the dells at Matthiessen.

BRING PROVISIONS

Hiking can be exhausting, and many hikers underestimate how much water they’ll drink out on the trails. Plan ahead and bring extra water and trail snacks for you and your fellow hikers.

BRING A PHONE

These parks are large, and you can go long distances without seeing another hiker while out on the trails. Be sure to bring a cell phone so you can call for help in case of an emergency.

BRING A LEASH

Pets are always welcomed at LaSalle County’s state parks, but they must be kept on a leash, for their own safety.

Scenic Trails

SHABBONA COUNTY PARK 4178 CO HWY 22 EARLVILLE

This park, located in rural Earlville, features picnic areas, open fields, rentable shelters and fishing ponds and the beautiful Indian Creek. While you’re there, be sure to learn about the tragic history of this tranquil park at the historical marker located near the entrance.

SYNDER GROVE PARK

EAST 4TH RD. • MENDOTA

Located in Mendota, this 104acre nature preserve features shelters, restrooms, picnic area and a playground. You’ll also find a small network of hiking trails.

SPRING LAKE NATURE AREA

more commonly found in Wisconsin or Canada.

1413

EAST 16TH ROAD STREATOR

Located 1.8 miles northwest of Streator, this 37+ acre park contains two creeks, a sandstone waterfall, an expansive large trail system, as well as some rare flora and fauna!

THINGS

LaSalle County is more than just a destination, it’s a lifestyle. Get off the couch and book an excursion to one of these unforgettable outdoor adventures. From free fun like geocaching and biking the historic I&M Canal, to Instagramworthy destinations like Skydive Chicago and Donnie’s Appleseed Orchard, there’s an adventure for everyone in LaSalle County.

AMPHIBIOUS ATVING GATOR CREEK CRUISE

815-481-3337 • CEDAR POINT ccrstables.com

ORCHARD AND FARM FRESH PRODUCE

DONNIE APPLESEED ORCHARD

815-780-7390 • LASALLE donnieappleseedorchard.com

BIKING

I & M CANAL STATE TRAIL SENECA TO LASALLE iandmcanal.org

MARILLA PARK

Wooded Trails • STREATOR streator.org ci.streator.il.us

AYERS LANDING & CANOE

ayerslandingcanoerental.com

I & M CANAL BOAT TOURS

lasallecanalboat.org

QUEST WATERSPORTS

815-433-2200 • OTTAWA srcrentals.com

OTTAWA HISTORICAL AND SCOUTING HERITAGE MUSEUM

815-431-9353 • OTTAWA

GO KARTING CONCEPT HAULERS MOTOR SPEEDWAY

815-496-2467 • SHERIDAN concepthaulersmotorspeedway.com

HORSEBACK RIDING

CEDAR CREEK RANCH

815-481-3337 • CEDAR POINT ccrstables.com

PUNKIN ACRE PAINTS

815-223-9076 • LaSalle punkinacrepaints.com/trailriding

Horseback Riding

INDOOR WATERPARK

GRIZZLY JACK’S GRAND BEAR FALLS

866-399-3866 • UTICA grizzlyjacksresort.com

FOX RIVER RESORT’S PIRATE’S CAY

815-496-3292 • SHERIDAN piratescay.com

KAYAKING

KAYAK STARVED ROCK

630-567-4653 • OTTAWA kayakmorris.com/starvedrock-kayak-tour

MARINAS

ANCHOR IN MARINA

815-357-6666 • SENECA anchorinmarina.com

HERITAGE HARBOR MARINA

815-433-5000 • OTTAWA heritageharborottawa.com

HIDDENCOVE MARINA

815-357-6869 • SENECA thehiddencovemarina.com

MARINERS MARINA

708-528-5880 • SENECA marinersvillage&marina.com

SOUTH SHORE BOAT CLUB

815-223-9890 • PERU southshoreboatclub.com

SNUG HARBOR MARINA

815-795-9080 • MARSEILLES

SPRING BROOK MARINA

815-357-8666 • SENECA springbrookmarina.com

STARVED ROCK MARINA

815-433-4218 • OTTAWA starvedrockmarina.com

OFF-ROADING LOCATIONS

THE CLIFFS INSANE

TERRAIN

815-795-5200 • MARSEILLES thecliffsinsaneterrain.com

DIRT RUNNER

630-291-0250 • MARSEILLES dirtrunner.us

FOX VALLEY OFF ROAD

815-431-9913 • OTTAWA foxvalleyoffroad.com

PETTING ZOO & WAGON RIDES

PAULY’S PETTING ZOO

815-481-3337 • CEDAR POINT ccrstables.com

RACING

LASALLE SPEEDWAY

815-223-6900 • LASALLE lasallespeedway.com

SKYDIVING

SKYDIVE CHICAGO

815-433-0000 • OTTAWA skydivechicago.com

SPLASH PAD

FOX RIVER PARK SPLASH PAD

OTTAWA •cityofottawa.org

SPLASH FIELD AT WASHINGTON PARK PERU • peru.il.us

WHITEWATER RAFTING

VERMILLION RIVER RAFTING

815-667-5242 • OGLESBY vermillionriverrafting.com

YOGA/SPA

SALT TREE YOGA

815-343-2751 • OTTAWA salttreeyoga.com

EAGLE

Watch

Fwine tastings, delicious dinners, scenic hikes and cozy cabins, but this majestic stretch of North-Central Illinois is also home to some of the best winter eagle watching the Midwest has to offer.

Bald Eagle

The Illinois Audubon Society’s Plum Island Sanctuary, located at the base of the Starved Rock Lock, has long been a favorite wintering site for bald eagles. The broken-up ice, reliable food source and sturdy nesting trees make this small stretch of the Illinois River a reliable place for birders, photographers and nature lovers to see these beautiful birds of prey in their natural habitat.

During their wintering season, which lasts anywhere between December and March, you’ll often spot these eagles circling above broken ice, trying to find their next meal, or roosting among the island’s tallest trees – but the best time to spot them is Eagle Watch Weekend, which is slated to be held January 27-28, 2024. This fest is devoted to bringing guests closer to these feathered friends with informational talks, eagle encounters, bird-watching excursions and discounted lodging bundles.

The festivities include guided eagle viewing hikes, a birds-of-prey informational programs, live shows with real bald eagles, children’s activities and much more!

Follow our Facebook page to stay up to date about Eagle Watch Weekend 2024.

37. Father Marquette Memorial 38. Heritage Corridor CVB Visitors Center 39. LaSalle County Historical Society Museum Campus

31. Spring Lake Nature Area 32. Streator City Park 33. Streatorland Historical Museum 34. Weber House & Garden 35. WWII Canteen Monument

SENECA 25. IL LST (Landing Ship Tank) Memorial 26. MJ Hogan Grain Elevator 27. Seneca Area History Museum

WEDRON 40. Charles Lindbergh Crash Site Marker

TROY GROVE 36. Wild Bill Hickok State Memorial UTICA

SHERIDAN 28. Norsk Museum STREATOR 29. Hopalong Cassidy River Trail & Canoe Launch 30. Sandy Ford Conservation Area

18. IL Waterway Visitors Center 19. LaSalle County Genealogy Guild 20. Ottawa Visitors Center 20. Reddick Mansion 20. Washington Square Park and Murals 21. Riverwalk & Fox River Park 22. Skydive Chicago PERU 23. Baker Lake Park 24. Westclox Museum

OGLESBY 13. Memorial Park MATTHIESSEN STATE PARK 14. McPhedran Park STARVED ROCK STATE PARK & VISITOR CENTER

MARSEILLES ILLINI STATE PARK 7. Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial & Museum

EARLVILLE 1. Earlville Historical Society Museum 2. RT 34 Drive-In Theater

To extend your drive to Illini State Park and other LaSalle County locations along the river.

OTTAWA BUFFALO ROCK STATE PARK 15. Catlin Park 16. Dayton Bluffs 17. I & M Tollhouse and Replica Canal Boat

MENDOTA 8. Breaking the Prairie Museum 9. Hume-Carnegie Museum & Veterans Park 10. Lake Kakusha 11. Snyder Grove Park 12. Union Depot Railroad Museum

Shabbona County Park LASALLE

Hegeler Carus Mansion IL & MICHIGAN CANAL STATE TRAIL

Part of the Illinois River Road Scenic Byway and Canyon Drive with connecting roads.

Lock 16 Visitors Center/Lock14/I&M Canal Boat 6. Mitchell Grove Nature Preserve

SCENIC DRIVES:

WHERE TO Explore

HISTORIC HOMES & Grand Gardens:

LaSalle County is filled with rich history! From the Native American tribes that traded near Starved Rock, to the legendary civil engineering project that was the I&M Canal, to the famed first Lincoln-Douglas Debate, history comes alive in this stretch of North-Central Illinois. To soak in some of these fascinating historical stories, pay a visit to this trio of grand gardens and historic mansions!

Weber House and Garden

www.WeberHouseAndGarden.com

Weber House & Garden

his historic childhood home in 1983. decorated rooms, each one reflecting a different period of design, and a style garden. This unique blend of architecture, horticulture, interior design and broadcast history is open for tours seven days a week, April – October.

Hegeler Carus Mansion

1307 7th St, LaSalle, IL 61301

www.HegelerCarus.org

Hegeler Carus Mansion

Designed by W. W. Boyington, the famed Chicago Water Tower architect, LaSalle’s Hegeler Carus Mansion has remained virtually unaltered since its completion in 1876. This 16,000sq. foot mansion features 56 rooms spread across 7 levels. The interior is just as stunning as the exterior, with its intricate parquet floors and hand-painted ceilings. This National Landmark is open for tours Wed. - Sun, year-round.

Reddick Mansion

100 W Lafayette St, Ottawa, IL 61350

www.ReddickMansion.org

The Reddick Mansion, a wonderfully unique landmark, stands at the corners of Columbus and Lafayette streets in Ottawa, overlooking the Lincoln Douglas Debate Site. This 150+ year old, 22-room, Italianate mansion has been meticulously restored to the 19th century, after decades of being used as the town’s public library. Now, the mansion is open year-round for tours, Fri. – Mon.

Reddick Mansion

PLACES TODine

LaSalle County is a foodie’s dream come true, and an exceptional dining destination! From friendly neighborhood pubs serving legendary burgers to upscale eateries providing delicious scratch-made meals, there’s something for every palate. Enjoy fresh sushi rolled by a skilled chef, piping hot wood fired pizza or a fresh take on American classics made with locally sourced ingredients. LaSalle County’s delicious eateries aren’t just serving up memorable meals, they’re also providing small town hospitality and service you won’t find anywhere else.

LASALLE

JORGE’S MARGARITAS & GRILL

815-250-0775

NINA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT

815-780-8080

ninasmarketinc.com

UPTOWN GRILL

815-224-4545

uptowngrill.com

MARSEILLES

THE LAKES COUNTRY CLUB

815-795-5107

thelakescc.net

OGLESBY

CINDY’S ON 39

815-883-3539

CORTILENO’S PUB

815-993-9157

cortilenos.com

MR. SALSAS

815-883-9299

mrsalsasmex.com

THE ROOTBEER STAND

815-883-9254

STARVED ROCK LODGE

815-667-4211

starvedrocklodge.com

OTTAWA

MCDONALD’S 815-434-3141

mcdonalds.com

PERU THE IGLOO

815-223-0848

igloodiner.com

STEAK N’ SHAKE

815-224-3111

steaknshake.com

STONE JUG BARBEQUE

815-780-8275

stonejugbbq.com

UTICA

BRUCE & OLLIE’S ICE CREAM & COFFEE

815-691-8034

bruceandollies.com

JOY & ED’s BAR & RESTAURANT

815-667-4850

SKOOGS PUB & GRILL

815-667-5800

skoogspub.com

I & M CANAL 175th Anniversary

Celebrate the 175th Anniversary of the historic Illinois & Michigan Canal at these great family friendly places and activities. The suggestions below include indoor and outdoor activities, both educational and recreational. For more information on this year-long celebration honoring this legendary waterway, be sure to follow the I&M Canal National Heritage Area on Facebook (facebook.com/ iandmcanal) and visit iandmcanal.org

BECOME A JR RANGER (ages 5 to 95)

The IMCNHA has one of the favorite National Park Service

do both and meet a National Park Service Ranger. Check iandmcanal.org for details.

OTTAWA’S TOLLHOUSE

LaSalle, 61301) or Isle a la Cache

to attend a Jr. Ranger Day to

Ottawa’s tollhouse is a remarkable relic of the I&M Canal boom, a surviving original structure filled with recovered items and fascinating displays about the waterway’s storied history in a compact one-room footprint. Located conveniently in the heart of Ottawa’s downtown, right along the I&M towpath, you’ll find this immaculate looking 175 year old museum. A group of dedicated volunteers turned this husk of a building into a painstakingly researched approximation of what the canal collector’s toll house would have looked like back in 1848. For more information, visit pickusottawail.com/attractions/ im-canal-toll-house/

I&M CANAL BOAT

This 76-foot boat is the first on the canal in over 70 years, but the star of the show for adults and kids alike is Moe the Mule, who pulls the boat and passengers down the canal for a brief glimpse of what canal travel was

Ottawa’s Tollhouse

like in 1848, when Chicago was the western frontier. The ride is about an hour long, enough to learn the history from the guide and the recorded history, but not too long for the kids. You are allowed to walk around the boat, sit in the cabin, or explore the upper deck. Catch a view of turtles sunning themselves on the rocks, while birds, fish, and other animals may make an appearance. Kids can become a Jr. Captain and visit the stern of the boat to see the rudder in action. Tickets are required, iandmcanal.org, 754 First Street,

I&M CANAL STATE TRAIL

This a perfect place to let your kids explore. The trail is flat, with either a crushed limestone or paved surface, making it ideal for walking, running, skipping, pushing a stroller, or bicycling. The trail has many access points in and near our canal towns, with 18 free parking lots along the 61 miles. Kids can see a variety of birds, animals, and fish, including herons, turtles, and deer, and sometimes an eagle. The trail is usually not too busy, and it can be easily shared by walkers and cyclists. There are many interpretive signs and mile markers along the way, many of them with QR codes offering local information, including nearby food.

“Wild

Hickok. Since 1990, the

of the school is the herb garden, containing herbs and flowers native to Illinois. Many of the exhibits within our other buildings are of interest to families, including the Radium Dial Girls. lasallecountyhistoricalsociety.org, 101 E Canal St, North Utica, 61373

The beautiful and historic Reddick Mansion anchors Ottawa’s Washington Square, the site of the first Lincoln-Douglas debate.

LASALLE COUNTY HISTORICAL

Bill”

MARVELOUS Museums

Steeped in fascinating history, from enormous Native American trading camps on the banks of the Illinois to French explorers establishing a fort at Starved Rock and the very first Lincoln-Douglas debate, LaSalle County has been home to historic events that not only shaped Illinois, but the entire world. LaSalle County’s amazing museums archive this rich history and share it with the public, in a way that’s just as fun as it is informative!

EARLVILLE COMMUNITY HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM

136 S. Ottawa Street • Earlville

815-246-7076

www.earlvillehistory.org

Housed inside a historic 1890’s hardware store, Earlville’s free community museum shares the history of this Northern LaSalle County town through a fascinating collection of artifacts.

LOCK 16 VISITOR CENTER

754 First Street • LaSalle 815-220-1848

www.iandmcanal.org

The Lock 16 Visitor Center offers more than just a delicious café and great gift shop, it also houses a massive

wrap-around interpretive mural that tells the storied history of

ride along a mile and half of restored canal, learning the importance I&M played in the

HUME-CARNEGIE MUSEUM

901 Washington St. • Mendota 815-539-3373

www.mendotamuseums.org

Witness a collection of over 500 photos depicting 100

Lock 16 Visitors Center

fascinating years of Mendota

BREAKING THE PRAIRIE FARM MUSEUM

684 8th Street • Mendota

815-539-3373

mendotamuseums.org

This unique agricultural museum is open for viewing 24/7, through a series of glass windows that allow you to take a look at the historic farm implements that “broke the prairie”. Interior tours can be arranged by calling the number listed above.

NORSK MUSEUM

3656 E. 2631st St. • Sheridan

815-343-5070

norskmuseum.org

This delightful museum is dedicated to Scandinavian culture, and is filled with

Ottawa Historical and Scouting Heritage Museum

artifacts from the Norwegian immigrants that settled the region back in the 1800’s.

STARVED ROCK STATE PARK VISITORS CENTER

2678 E. 873rd Road • Oglesby 815-667-4726 dnr.illinois.gov

Starved Rock’s cutting edge visitors center helps guests learn about the park’s storied past, fascinating wildlife and ecology through the use of interactive displays and interpretive dioramas.

M.J. HOGAN GRAIN ELEVATOR

124 West Williams • Seneca 815-357-6197 senecahistory.com

This 1861 grain elevator is of the last of its kind. This 65+ foot tall, 70,000 bushel elevator can be toured during special events, or call the number above to arrange a tour.

SENECA AREA HERITAGE MUSEUM

431 N. Main Street • Seneca 815-769-5077 senecahistory.com

Seneca’s fascinating history is explained through a wonderfully curated collection of artifacts inside a vintage train depot! The museum even includes information on Seneca’s famed shipyard that produced 157 LSTs for WWII.

I&M CANAL TOLLHOUSE

1221 Columbus St. • Ottawa 815-434-2737 pickusottawail.com

The only surviving I&M tollhouse, this one room museum shows guests what the life of an 1850’s locktender was like, through a collection of artifacts, dioramas and historical documents.

OTTAWA HERITAGE AND SCOUTING MUSEUM

1100 Canal Street • Ottawa 815-431-9353

Dedicated to preserving the history of the Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and Campfire Scouts, this museum also

has displays on the Lincoln Douglas Debates, and scouts founder/Ottawa resident W. D. Boyce.

ILLINOIS WATERWAY VISITOR CENTER

950 N. 27th Road • Ottawa 815-667-4054

See the operation of a real lock and dam up close, and learn about the Illinois Waterway’s significance as a part of the nation’s water highway system.

LASALLE COUNTY

GENEALOGICAL GUILD

115 West Glover Street Ottawa 815-433-5261

Search a vast archive of historical records to learn more about your ancestors’ connection to LaSalle County.

WASHINGTON SQUARE PARK

Ottawa pickusottawail.com

Visit the historic site of the first Lincoln-Douglas debate, as honored by a large reflecting pool and beautiful bronze statue.

WESTCLOX MUSEUM

350 5th Street, Suite 265 Peru 815-250-0617

westcloxmuseum.com

Peru’s famed Westclox factory, makers for the beloved cultfavorite clock, are honored in this fascinating museum. Through a vast collection of documents, artifacts and antiques, the Westclox Museum tells the story of the community that made these remarkable clocks.

STREATORLAND HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM

306 Vermillion Street Streator 815-672-2443

streatorlandmuseum.com

Celebrate historic Streator at this riveting museum, filled with thousands of artifacts, pictures, and records dedicated to telling the story of this community. You’ll also find a real Burlington Northern caboose on the museum property.

LASALLE COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM

101 East Canal Street • Utica 815-667-4861

The LaSalle County Historical Society campus, located on the banks of the historic I&M Canal features five buildings and interpretive sites that, together, weave the fascinating story of LaSalle County.

LaSalle County Historical Society Museum

PLACES TOShop

From hip antique shops selling expertly curated collectibles to fashion forward boutiques serving up great looks at unbeatable prices, there’s a shopping destination for everyone in LaSalle County! You’ll find malls, mom and pop shops, specialty stores, salons and even art galleries in the communities around the Starved Rock region. Whatever you’re in the market for, LaSalle County is sure to have a store that sells it!

CLARKS RUN ANTIQUES

815-667-7190 • UTICA clarksrunantiques.com

CLARKS RUN CREEK GIFTS & WINE

815-691-8047 • UTICA clarksruncreek.com

JOBST MONUMENTS & GIFTS

815-433-0310 • OTTAWA

Jobst Monument & Gifts On Facebook

HY-VEE

815-223-5219 • PERU hy-vee.com

LOCK 16 GIFT SHOP

815-220-1848 • LASALLE iandmcanal.org

SALT TREE YOGA

(815) 343-2751 • OTTAWA salttreeyoga.com

STARVED ROCK COUNTRY WELCOME CENTER AND ILLINOIS MADE GIFT SHOPPE

815-667-4356 • UTICA hcdestinations.com

STARVED ROCK LODGE GIFT SHOP

815-667-4211 • OGLESBY starvedrocklodge.com

SULLIVAN’S FOODS

815-539-9341 • MENDOTA sullivansfoods.net

PLACES TOStay

RESORTS & LODGES

GRAND BEAR RESORT AT STARVED ROCK

866-399-3866 • UTICA grandbearresort.com

HOLIDAY INN CLUB

VACATIONS FOX RIVER RESORT

815-496-2369 • SHERIDAN ihg.com

STARVED ROCK LODGE & CONFERENCE CENTER

815-667-4211 • OGLESBY starvedrocklodge.com

HOTELS & MOTELS

AMERICINN

815-672-0080 • STREATOR americinn.com

BEST WESTERN OGLESBY

815-883-3535 • OGLESBY bestwestern.com

COMFORT INN

815-538-3355 • MENDOTA choicehotels.com

COMFORT INN

815-433-0029 • OTTAWA choicehotels.com

DAYS INN BY WYNDHAM

815-681-7739 • OGLESBY 815-883-9600 • OGLESBY daysinnstarvedrock.com

FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES

815-431-8955 • OTTAWA marriott.com/mdwot

FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES

815-223-7458 • PERU marriott.com/sqipr

HAMPTON INN

815-434-6040 • OTTAWA hampton.com

HAMPTON INN & SUITES

815-220-8400 • PERU peru.hamptoninn.com

HOLIDAY INN CLUB

VACATIONS FOX RIVER RESORT

815-433-0029 • SHERIDAN holidayinnexpress.com/ottawail

Kishauwau Cabins

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES PERU

815-224-2500 • PERU holidayinnexpress.com/ lasalleperu

LAQUINTA INN PERU

815-224-9000 • PERU lq.com

THE LAKES COUNTRY CLUB & INN

815-795-5107 • MARSEILLES prairielakescc.com

QUALITY INN

815-433-9600 • OTTAWA choicehotels.com

QUALITY INN

815-223-8585 • PERU choicehotels.com

RELAX INN

815-672-3168 • STREATOR relaxinnstreator.com

SANDS MOTEL

815-434-6440 • OTTAWA sandsmotelottawa.com

STARVED ROCK MOTOR INN

815-672-8400 • STREATOR starvedrockhotel.com

SUPER 8

815-223-1848 • PERU super8.com

SUPER 8

815-615-9582 • MENDOTA super8.com

SUPER 8

815-434-2888 • OTTAWA super8.com

SURREY MOTEL

815-433-1263 • OTTAWA surreymotel.com

COTTAGES & B&Bs

BALDWIN HOUSE

815-510-0658 • STREATOR streatorbaldwinhouse.com

THE BICKERMAN BUILDING LOFTS

815-691-8034 • UTICA thebickerman.com

CHEF TOM’S GUEST HOUSE

815-257-1025 • STREATOR chef-toms

THE COTTAGES AT HERON’S 815-433-5000 • OTTAWA heritageharborottawa.com

KISHAUWAU CABINS

815-442-8453 • TONICA Kishauwaucabins.com

LANDERS HOUSE

815-667-5170 • UTICA landershouse.com

CAMPGROUNDS & RECREATION

CAMP ARAMONI - LUXURY CAMPING

815-224-7333 • TONICA camparamoni.com

DEER CREEK CAMPGROUND

815-786-4873 • SHERIDAN campingdeercreek.com

FOUR STAR CAMPGROUND

815-795-5720 • MARSEILLES fourstarcampground.com

GLENWOOD RV RESORT

815-795-6000 • MARSEILLES GlenwoodRVResort.com

HI-TIDE RECREATION

815-495-9032 • LELAND

ILLINI STATE PARK

815-795-2448 • MARSEILLES reserveamerica.com

KAYAK STARVED ROCK CAMPGROUND 630-567-4653 • OTTAWA kayakmorris.com

LASALLE/PERU KOA 815-667-4988 • UTICA koa.com

MALLARD BEND CAMPGROUND 815-496-2496 • SHERIDAN

PLEASANT CREEK

CAMPGROUND 815-431-0936 • OGLESBY pleasantcreekcampground.com

ROLLING OAKS CAMPGROUND

815-496-2334 • SHERIDAN

STARVED ROCK STATE PARK 815-667-4726 • OGLESBY reserveamerica.com

TROLL HOLLOW CAMPGROUND

815-795-2537 • MARSEILLES trollhollow.com

WOODSMOKE RANCH REALTY

815-357-1338 • SENECA woodsmokeranch.com

CALENDAR of Events

MAY - SEPTEMBER

Canal Market

Every Sunday 10 AM - 4 PM, and select event days throughout the year 815-667-4861 lasallecountyhistoricalsociety.org

Summer Concert Series

Fridays • 6:30 PM - 8 PM

Hegeler Carus Mansion LaSalle • 815-224-5897 hegelercarus.org

Music On The Veranda

Fridays • 8 PM - 11 PM

Starved Rock Lodge • Oglesby starvedrocklodge.com

JUNE - AUGUST

Jammin’ at the Clock

Fridays • 6:00 - 8:00 PM

Heritage Park • Streator streator.org

Ottawa’s 3rd Friday Artisan Market

Third Friday of each month 6PM TO 9 PM • Open Space Art Gallery • (815) 293-7099 osartstudios.com

Music Under The Oaks

Fridays • 6 – 9 PM 815-200-5058 • peru.il.us

Music in the Park

Saturdays • 6 - 8 PM Washington Park • Ottawa cityofottawa.org pickusottawail.com

JUNE - OCTOBER

Waterfowl Cruises

Saturdays and Sundays

1:00 pm and 2:00 pm

Starved Rock State Park

starvedrocklodge.com

Streator’s Farmers Market

Saturdays • 8 AM - 12 PM

Streator City Park • streator.org

NOVEMBER -

DECEMBER

Chris Kringle Market

November 24-26, December, 1-3 and 8-10

Ottawa • (815) 434-2737

pickusottawail.com

NOVEMBER -

JANUARY

November 10 - January 1

Celebration of Lights

Rotary Park • LaSalle lasalle-il.gov

DECEMBER - MARCH

Guided Winter Hikes

Weekends • Starved Rock Lodge

Oglesby • 815-220-7386

starvedrocklodge.com

JANUARY - MARCH

Winter Wildlife Trolley Tours

Weekends, 11 AM - 1 PM, 1 PM - 3PM • Starved Rock Lodge

Oglesby • 815-220-7386

starvedrocklodge.com

MAY

May 13

Starved Rock Country Marathon, Half Marathon & Run SRC 5K 7 am • Ottawa runstarvedrockcountry.net

May 19-20

TBM Avenger Reunion & Airshow

Illinois Valley Regional Airport Peru • tbmreunion.org

May 20

Streator Food Truck Festival & Artisan Market Noon - 7 pm • Streator City Park streator.org

May 20-21

Kites In Flight Festival 10 am - 3 pm • Heritage Harbor Ottawa • pickusottawail.com

May 26-28

Park Fest

Streator City Park • Streator streator.org

May 27-28

Wild Bill Days Utica • utica-il.gov lasallecountyhistoricalsociety.org

JUNE

June 2

Pistol Shrimp Home Opener Veterans Pak • Peru peru.il.us

June 2-4

Ottawa Two Rivers Wine Festival

Jordan Block • Ottawa pickusottawail.com

June 10

Family Pride Festival Washington Square Park Ottawa

June 10 - 17

Poco – A – Poco Summer Music Camp pocoapoco.org • streator.org

June 15-18

Oglesby Summer Fun Fest Festival Grounds • Oglesby oglesbyfunfest.com

June 16

Ottawa’s Annual Cruise Night

5 pm to 10 pm

LaSalle Street • Ottawa lasallecountycruisers.com

June 22-25

Celebrate LaSalle Downtown LaSalle lasalle-il.gov

JULY

July 1

Utica Fireworks Celebration Utica • Carey Memorial Park utica-il.gov

July 3

Peru Fireworks Celebration Water St. • Peru • peru.il.us

July 4

4th of July Fireworks 211 East Main St. • Ottawa pickusottawail.com

AUGUST

August 3- August 6

Streator Fest

Concerts, Carnival & More Streator • streatorfest.com

August 5

LaSalle County Cruisers 38th Annual Car Show

2 PM • LaSalle Street • Ottawa lasallecountycruisers.com

August 10 - 13

Mendota Sweet Corn Festival Downtown Mendota sweetcornfestival.com

August 18 - 20

Starved Rock Nationals

Skydive Chicago • Ottawa srnshow.com

SEPTEMBER

September 2

Roamer Cruise Night & Dream Machine Car Show

Streator City Park/Downtown Streator • streator.org

September 8 - 9

BBQ N Blues & Jazz N The Streets Downtown LaSalle lasalle-il.gov lasallebusiness.org

September 16 - 17

Vintage Illinois Wine Festival Downtown Utica vintageillinois.com

September 16

Streator Food Truck Festival Noon - 7 PM • Streator City Park streator.org

September 16 Pluto Fest 10AM - 3PM •Streator City Park streator.org

OCTOBER

Fall Colors Trolley Tours Saturdays & Mondays, through October 9:30am and 11am Starved Rock Lodge starvedrocklodge.com

Autumn on the River Tours Monday, Wednesday and Fridays, through October 11am – 3:00pm Starved Rock Visitor Center Oglesby starvedrocklodge.com

October 7 - 8

LaSalle County Historical Society’s Burgoo Festival Downtown Utica • 815-667-4861 lasallecountyhistoricalsociety.org

NOVEMBER

November 24

Festival of Lights Parade 6PM • Downtown Ottawa

November 25

Small Business Saturday Utica • utica-il.gov

November 25

Small Business Saturday LaSalle • lasalle-il.gov lasallebusiness.org

DECEMBER

Christmas Trolley Tour of Lights Through December Starved Rock Visitor Center Oglesby starvedrocklodge.com

December 2

Light Up the Night Christmas Parade

Centennial Park to Washington Park • Peru peru.il.us

December 8

Merry On Main Downtown Streator streator.org

December 1 – 3

Christkindlmarket Downtown LaSalle lasalle-il.gov lasallebusiness.org

December 2

Miracle on 1st Street LaSalle • lasalle-il.gov

December 2

Christmas Parade 815-200-5058 • peru.il.us

Keeping Christmas Close to Home & Light Up Streator

Enjoying LASALLE COUNTY

Tourism Information

CITY OF LA SALLE

815-223-3755 • LA SALLE lasalle-il.gov

CITY OF MARSEILLES MARSEILLES • 815-795-2133 cityofmarseilles.com

CITY OF OGLESBY

815-883-3389 • OGLESBY oglesby.il.us

CITY OF PERU

815-223-0061 • PERU peru.il.us

HERITAGE CORRIDOR DESTINATIONS

815-667-4356 • UTICA hcdestinations.com

I & M CANAL BOAT/LOCK 16 VISITOR CENTER

815-220-1848 • LASALLE iandmcanal.org

IL RIVER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

815-795-2323 • MARSEILLES IRACC.org

IL RIVER ROAD NATIONAL SCENIC BYWAY

309-547-2730 • LEWISTOWN, IL illinoisriverroad.org

IL WATERWAY VISITOR CENTER/U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS

815-667-4054 • OTTAWA mvr.usace.army.mil/Missions/ Recreation/Illinois-Waterway

ILLINOIS VALLEY AREA CHAMBER

815-223-0227 • PERU ivaced.org

MENDOTA AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

815-539-6507 • MENDOTA mendotachamber.com

OTTAWA VISITORS CENTER

815-434-2737 • OTTAWA pickusottawail.com

STARVED ROCK STATE PARK VISITOR CENTER

815-667-4726 • OGLESBY dnr.illinois.gov

STREATOR TOURISM

815-672-2055 • STREATOR streator.org • ci.streator.il.us

VILLAGE OF NORTH UTICA

815-667-4111 • UTICA utica-il.gov

VILLAGE OF SENECA

815-357-8771 • SENECA senecail.org